Smalls, but perfectly formed (From The Northern Echo)

Smalls, but perfectly formed

3:06pm Monday 4th February 2013 in Shops & Fashion

WHEN it comes to lingerie that’s made to be seen, Victoria’s Secret is anything but under wraps. The brand recently unveiled their £1.6m Floral Fantasy bra, flaunted on the catwalk by their “Angel” Alessandra Ambrosio and hand-set with amethysts, sapphires, rubies and white, pink, and yellow diamonds – all set in 18 carat rose and yellow gold.

Luckily, you don’t need to rob a bank to look a million dollars in the bedroom on Valentine’s night. Whether you’re feeling sweet or sultry on February 14, lingerie can cater to your every mood.

‘‘Every woman wants to feel great about herself and the right lingerie can do just that,’’ says Amanda Lorenzani, co-founder of Fox & Rose lingerie.

‘‘Fifty Shades Of Grey has certainly generated demand for more adventurous lingerie sets, but the line between sexy and sordid is very fine.’’ Glamour pusses can make a statement in the bedroom with a dark, dominating look. If you like one colour, stick to seductive classic black, or try a big cat print if you’re feeling wild. A sheer, embroidered mesh will keep things more subtle than a padded bra if you favour patterns.

Lace is the fabric that’s made for a seductress.

If you feel too exposed, try a demi cup bra that’s half sumptuous silk and offset with sultry lace.

Forget visions of Bridget Jones big pants and think Brigitte Bardot instead. While shapewear has proved a godsend for helping create a streamlined hourglass silhouette in clothes, it’s tended to be far too unflattering to reveal what’s underneath. But these days it can be alluring too – look for silky pieces that contour the body but feature mesh or lace panelling.

Feminine florals are in full bloom for spring so transfer the catwalk trend to your lingerie drawer. Think English rose or Japanese cherry blossom rather than tropical blooms for guaranteed elegance.

Offset cuteness overload by opting for seductive shapes or a surprise colourway, such as grey or blue accented with a contrasting floral embroidery.

For the ultimate in girliness, try silk lingerie in pretty pastel or nude hues. Get the fit and cut just right and the simplicity will be breathtaking.

Embrace the glamour of past eras with vintage- inspired styling. French-style high-waisted knickers and corset-inspired bras will accentuate your assets, without losing the sexy factor. If skimpy sets aren’t your thing, cover up in a slinky kimono wrap or chemise set and let his imagination run riot as to what lies beneath.

To channel your inner vixen, you can’t beat lipstick red. Just make sure it’s a tone that suits your colouring to achieve a flattering effect.

For the ultimate in underwear indulgence, kit yourself out with a matching set consisting of bra, thong and suspenders to get pulses racing.

Cutaway and peekaboo lines are made to shock. They may be relatively understated from one side but rather more revealing on the reverse.

The guys’ guide to buying undies

Buying lingerie as a gift can be a logistical nightmare for guys, but not if you do your homework. Here are some tips for navigating the minefield of buying smalls:

• Take an all-important sneaky peek in her underwear draw and find out her correct sizes by looking at the labels.
• Be taste sensitive to gain serious brownie points. What style of knickers does she normally wear? Does she like thongs, short-style briefs or classic lace knickers?
• If she’s not a fan of racy red, don’t try and tempt her out of her comfort zone. If she’s feminine, go for one of the stunning nude or pale lingerie sets and show her you pay attention.
• Most women enjoy receiving beautiful underwear they wouldn’t necessarily buy themselves. Be bold and go for something versatile and different. For example, try a flowing yet sexy babydoll paired with a thong for a luxuriously sensual look.
• If in doubt about her size and style preferences, choose a beautiful silk robe.
• Ask for help. Whether you’re buying in store or online. Most retailers enjoy helping out their male customers so don’t feel embarrassed – they are there to help you pick the perfect gift.
• Avoid at all costs: crotchless knickers, edible lingerie, leather, PVC or fishnets, which rank as the most unpopular gifts.